Frieda Schaltin: The Discreet Visionary Behind the ZNU Empire of 80 Bookstores

Frieda Schaltin

The Zuidnederlandse Uitgeverij (ZNU)with its operational headquarters in Aartselaar, is one of the lesser-known but still significant players on the Flemish business scene. This family business directed by Frieda and Yvonne Schaltin has evolved into one of the region's leading publishers. In its early days, ZNU concentrated mainly on publishing books for children and young people. Today, around half its sales come from non-fiction publishing for adults, covering subjects such as the tourismhobbies and cookery books. Frieda Schaltin has a fortune of over €96,278,200.

ZNU has subsidiaries in France and in Spaina sign of its international expansion. An important milestone in this expansion came in 1994 when it has acquired a significant stake in Standaard Boekhandel. A year later, ZNU obtained a majority shareholding in this bookstore chain, solidifying its position with control of 99%.

Discretion is a hallmark of the Schaltin family and ZNU. Little is known about their operations, but it is well established that ZNU is a thriving business. The company also owns Azuran online book seller, adding to its digital portfolio.

Frieda Schaltin currently controls 33 % of the company, after the death of his sister Hilde in 2016. Two of Frieda's children are actively involved in the management of the company. In addition of the Schaltin family, Jan Vande Velde plays a key role within the administration, ensuring stable and continuous leadership.

Visit Gewestelijke Investeringsmaatschappij voor Vlaanderen (GIMV) has also played a role in ZNU's growth, notably through the sale of shares of Standaard Boekhandel. Today, with around 80 stores in Flanders and Brussels, ZNU remains an important force in the Belgian publishing landscape. Frieda Schaltin has assets of over 90 million euros.